Board of Commissioners

Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting Minutes Book - Page Fuquay-Varina Town Board Meeting March 4, 2024 J. Blake Massengill, Mayor Marilyn Gardner, Mayor Pro-Tem William H. Harris, Commissioner The Regular Meeting of the Fuquay-Varina Town Bryan Haynes, Commissioner Board scheduled for Monday, March 4, 2024, at Charlie Adcock, Commissioner Jason Wunsch - Commissioner 7:00 p.m. was held at the Fuquay-Varina Town Adam G. Mitchell, Town Manager Mark D. Matthews, Assistant Town Manager Hall, 134 N Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC. James (Jim) E. Seymour, Assistant Town Manager Rose H. Rich, Town Clerk James S. Adcock, III, Town Attorney In attendance were Mayor Blake Massengill, Mayor Pro-Tem Marilyn Gardner, Commissioners William Harris, Charlie Adcock, Bryan Haynes, and Jason Wunsch. Also in attendance were Town Manager Adam Mitchell, Assistant Town Manager Mark Matthews, Assistant Town Manager Jim Seymour, Town Attorney James Adcock, Deputy Town Clerk Teresa Wilder, IT Director Scott Clark, and various other department directors. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Massengill called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE Ray Runyan, State President with the Church of Latter Day Saints, provided the invocation and Dustin Williams, Fuquay-Varina Chamber President led the Pledge of Allegiance. VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOL Town Manager Mitchell reviewed the meeting protocol noting that the meeting was both in- person and live streamed on the Town’s YouTube Channel and Facebook. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3A The February 20, 2024, Town Board of Commissioners Regular Scheduled Meeting minutes. MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Gardner MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) PRESENTATIONS 4A Presentation - U.S. 401 Corridor Study Update Purpose – To provide the Town Board an update to the US 401 Corridor Study. Staff Comments – Kenneth Withrow with CAMPO presented the progress of the US 401 Corridor Study. He stated that the background of the US 401 Corridor Study was as follows: • Initial alignment for Future U.S. 401 (Bypass) was adopted by Board of Transportation on March 10, 1997. • Revised alignment approved on May 7, 1999. • Project/alignment (blue line) included in 2050 MTP. • Absent a Future U.S. 401 alignment decision, the 2050 MTP project alignment (blue line) will remain. He reported that three alternatives were derived during the Corridor Study being W, X and Z. Alternative W Alternative W represents an alternative that captures the improvements undertaken as part of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) AND additional improvements needed for the Alternative W U.S. 401 project. This includes: • Widen U.S. 401 to 6 Lanes at 55 mph, and N.C. 55 to 4 lanes at 55 mph. • Remove U.S. 401 Bypass as defined in the MTP between Banks Road and N.C. 55. • Downgrade Southern Parkway to 4 lanes at 45 mph arterial road. • Some level of access control on U.S. 401 and N.C. 55 within areas identified as an economic development focus area. • Likely impacts the proposed N.C. 55 extension. • Speed of 55mph: Requires additional right-of-way to construct, and thus greater property impacts. Alternative X Alternative X represents an alternative that closely resembles the U.S. 401 Bypass project currently included in the MTP. This includes: • Uses new right-of-way to construct a new 4-lane, 45mph roadway. • Does not connect to the future Angier Bypass – connects to U.S. 401 near Wake / Harnett County line. • Has the lowest projected traffic volumes of the three alternatives. • Requires additional right-of-way to construct. Alternative Z Alternative Z represents an alternative that connects the Angier Bypass with U.S. 401 near Banks Road. This includes: • Uses new right-of-way to construct a new 4-lane, 45mph roadway. • Connects to the future Angier Bypass and uses N.C. 210 widening for continuous improvements to Lillington. • Downgrade Southern Parkway to 2/3 lanes at 35 mph arterial road. • Requires modifications to intersections with future Angier Bypass at the southern end. He reported that there were several public engagement opportunities for education, awareness and feedback from the community. Also in person open houses, popups, digital and promotions like paid advertising and media releases. The following is the recommendations that Mr. Kenneth Withrow presented in Wake County. • Banks Road to N.C. 55: Widen from 4 to 6 lanes. (MTP Project) • N.C. 55 to Judd Parkway NE: Add raised median and Mixed Use Paths. (MTP Project) • Judd Parkway NE to Ennis St.: Add raised median and Mixed Use Paths (no MTP project) • Ennis St. to Judd Parkway SW: No roadway improvements. • Judd Parkway SW to Harnett Co.: Widen from 2 to 4 lanes with raised median and MUP. US 401 Wake County - Bicycle Pedestrian Facilities • Multi-use paths (MUP) or sidewalk and bicycle lanes throughout the corridor. • Wide sidewalks or MUP through Downtown, parallel bike improvements. US 401 Wake County – Transit • Strengthen connections to Garner and Raleigh. • Connections to Holly Springs and Apex may be possible in the future. The following is the recommendations that Mr. Kenneth Withrow presented in Harnett County. Harnett County Alignment • Currently 2 lanes at 55mph • Utilize existing U.S. 401 alignment in Harnett County • Widen to 4 lanes at 45mph Two Design Concepts based on Width • Narrow Cross Section (~120’): Modification of section 4L with 10’ MUP on both sides. • Applicable where limited ROW is available due to railroad or other sensitive resources. • Reduction of posted speed to 45mph. • Wide Cross Section (~150’): Modification of section 4B (MTP 2050) with 10’ MUP on both sides. • Applicable where ROW is not limited. • Reduction of posted speed to 45 mph. Bicycle and Pedestrian • Pedestrian and bicycle facilities along U.S. 401 • Bicycle facilities along collector / local streets between Rawls Church Rd and Harnett Central Rd constructed as development occurs. US 401 – Railroad Recommendation • Redesign the railroad crossings along U.S. 401 and other roadways in the study area to accommodate future widening anticipated due to growth in the area. • Specific improvements recommended for crossings at/near: • Matthews Rd • Lafayette School Rd • Chalybeate Rd – northern and southern ends Intersection Improvements Piney Grove Rawls Rd Signalize the intersection. Rawls Church Road Signalize the intersection. Chalybeate Springs Road Signalize the intersection. Chalybeate Road Signalize the intersection. (Northern End) Re-evaluate the traffic impacts if southern section is disconnected. Chalybeate Road Restrict turns at this intersection and, (Southern End) from operations and safety perspective, consider removing this intersection with U.S. 401 altogether. Lafayette School Road Close the connection to U.S. 401 and, look at possible alternative access routes to Lafayette Elementary School to/from US 401. Lafayette Road Reevaluate the traffic impacts at this intersection. Recommendation – Future US 401 Alignment Alternative X/Z Benefits of Alternative X/Z: • Responsive to community feedback on priorities for impacts from any preferred alignment • Connects to Angier Bypass and uses N.C. 210 widening proposed in MTP to accommodate Future U.S. 401 • Enhances existing travel patterns between Lillington and Banks Road • Can still connect with Southern Parkway section shown in Alt X • Places an alignment further east to accommodate growth in the area • Can downgrade Southern Parkway to arterial road with 2/3 lanes at 35 mph Challenges of Alternative X/Z: • Requires new Right-of-Way to construct • Impacts approximately 100 properties; 58% of which are residential and 25% of which are Agricultural He stated that the final recommendation is to advance Alternative X/Z with a timeline in the 2050 MTP. He reported that the recommended projects for existing US 401 between Banks Road and NC 55, as well as NC 55 between US 401 and Angier Bypass should be elevated to a nearer build year. Improvements to the existing US 401 occur in segments to best fit the topography and current conditions along the roadway. He  reported that these recommendations go before the CAMPO Executive Board on March 21, 2024. Mayor Massengill thanked Mr. Withrow for his presentation. PUBLIC COMMENTS 5A Dana Orr, 912 Sequoia Ridge Drive, and Kate Davis, 728 Hunters Ridge Drive spoke requesting funding to help support the Fuquay-Varina Growers Market. ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED 6A There were no items previously tabled for the March 4, 2024, Town Board meeting. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7A Zoning Map Amendment & Land Use Plan Amendment - City Plat LLC - 1009 Bridge Street - PIN 0657527271 - REZ-2024-01 Purpose – To consider a requested zoning map amendment for a total of 4.44 acres, located at 1009 Bridge Street, from the Residential Agricultural (RA) Zoning District to the Research Light Industrial Conditional Zoning District (RLI-CZD) and the corresponding Land Use Plan amendment from the Community Activity Center (CAC) classification to the Industrial (IND) classification. Staff Comments – Planning Director Pam Davison entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the official record of the Town. She then provided general information about the agenda item and made the following remarks. The subject portion of the existing 34.17 ac parcel totals 4.44 acres. It is located in the Town's extraterritorial jurisdiction and is the subject of an annexation petition ANX- 2024-03. There are currently two operational warehouses on the property. The subject portion was recombined with 1001 Bridge Street (BM 2022, P 1474). The property is currently zoned Residential Agricultural (RA) Zoning District. The zoning map amendment petition requests approval of the Research Light Industrial Conditional Zoning District (RLI-CZD). This zoning district is intended to permit new industrial development and existing industries and warehouses developed prior to the Land Development Ordinance being adopted, and to permit redevelopment, as the market changes, for warehousing of production, material and finished products, manufacturing, production, fabrication or assembly, distribution or collection centers, wholesale, government, utility facilities, storage activities, contractor services, and flex space. Public water is required. The petitioner has requested that only the following uses be permitted at the subject property: 1) Vehicle/Charter Service 2) Telecommunication Facilities/Services 3) Restaurant, Mobile 4) Health Club/Gym 5) Towing Service & Storage 6) General/Special Trade Contractor & Storage 7) Brewery & Distillery 8) Manufacturing 9) Manufacturing, Artisan Products 10) Woodworking/Cabinet Making 11) Research & Development 12) Storage Facility 13) Warehouse & Distribution Center 14) Wholesale Trades 15) Building, Furniture, Appliances & Electronic Supply 16) Business Incubator 17) Flex Space 18) Animal Hospital/Veterinary Clinic Additionally, the petitioner has requested the following site-specific conditions be made applicable to the subject property: 1) Any perimeter buffer abutting a residentially zoned property shall be planted with all or only evergreen plantings. 2) No new driveways will be placed along Judd Parkway unless placed at the intersection of Judd Parkway and Wilbon Road. The surrounding property is primarily agricultural and residential in nature. Another portion of the existing warehouse development that is connected to the subject property is to the east. Additionally, the currently under construction Madden West development is to the south. The 2040 Community Vision Land Use Plan (LUP) calls for the Community Activity Center (CAC) classification at the subject property. Since the requested zoning is incompatible with the designation of CAC, the petitioner has included a Land Use Plan amendment as part of this zoning map petition, which will be described later in this report. A private water line currently serves the subject property. Sewer services will be extended with development. The subject property is located on and has access to NW Judd Parkway and Bridge Street. NW Judd Parkway is classified by the Town's 2035 Community Transportation Plan (CTP) as a 110-foot right-of-way and is identified as being a four (4)-lane median divided with turn lanes and sidepaths cross-section and a future carrying capacity of 35,100 ADT. It is currently constructed to the CTP classification with a carrying capacity of 35,100 ADT. 2021 NCDOT traffic counts taken approximately 1.05 miles to the south of the property indicated a volume of 7,800 ADT. More recent traffic count data is currently unavailable. Bridge Street is classified as a local street in the Town's CTP, and as such, NCDOT traffic counts are not available. A neighborhood meeting was held by the petitioner on January 22, 2024, via the Zoom web application. The meeting report is attached. Staff takes no position as to its content. The 2040 Community Vision Land Use Plan (LUP) calls for the Community Activity Center (CAC) classification at the subject property. The petitioner has proposed a Land Use Plan amendment from the Community Activity Center (CAC) classification to the Industrial (IND) classification as it is compatible with the proposed zoning and existing use of the property. Land classified as IND provides opportunities to concentrate employment clusters in Town. Industrial uses support both large scale, single-tenant industrial, warehouse, and flex space buildings and smaller, multi-tenant industrial buildings that are clustered and may support and serve one another. Industrial areas are typically buffered from surrounding development by tree preservation areas or landscaped areas with the type and size of the buffer a function of the activities being performed on the site. This amendment supports the following LUP policies: 1) Policy 4.1 Manage Future Growth and Development in Accordance with the Priority Infrastructure Investment Areas Map, as the subject property falls within the Tier 1-JP: Priority Area, Inside Judd Parkway. 2) Policy 6.4: Promote Manufacturing and Build a Competitive Advantage for Fuquay-Varina within the State and Region as the petitioner has selected several manufacturing uses to be permitted at the property. The Land Use Plan amendment, if approved, would allow for improvements that are consistent and appropriate with the existing use of the property. The rezoning and land use plan amendment for this portion of the parcel as well as its annexation are requirements for the approval of Site Plan SP-2023-13. The site plan, currently under review, proposes to bring the existing facility, which was developed as tobacco warehouses, an unpermitted agricultural use, into current zoning and building code standards for use as a multi-tenant warehouse. Management and staff recommend approval of the proposed zoning map amendment and corresponding Land Use Plan amendment as it is reasonable and in the interest of the public for the following reasons: 1) Although the requested zoning map amendment is not consistent with the 2040 Community Vision Land Use Plan classification of Community Activity Center (CAC), the petitioner has opted to request a change of the Land Use Plan to Industrial (IND), which is compatible with the proposed zoning and current use of the property. 2) The requested zoning supports the LUP's policy 4.1: Manage Future Growth and Development in Accordance with the Priority Infrastructure Areas Map. 3) The requested zoning supports the LUP's policy 6.4: Promote Manufacturing and Build a Competitive Advantage for Fuquay-Varina within the State and Region. 4) The proposed conditions effectively limit the future development potential for the site. At the February 19, 2024 regular meeting, the Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval. Public Hearing – The public hearing was opened. John Adcock, 202 E. Academy Street spoke in favor of the zoning map amendment and land use plan. No one spoke in opposition to the zoning map amendment and land use plan amendment. The public hearing was closed. Discussion – There was no discussion from members of the Town Board regarding this matter.  Recommendation – Approve REZ-2024-01, a zoning map amendment at 1009 Bridge Street, from the Residential Agricultural (RA) Zoning District to the Research Light Industrial Conditional Zoning District (RLI-CZD) and the corresponding Land Use Plan amendment from the Community Activity Center (CAC) classification to the Industrial (IND) classification as it is reasonable and in the interest of the public for the reasons identified by management and staff. MOTION: Commissioner Haynes SECOND: Commissioner Wunsch MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) 7B Voluntary Annexation Petition - ITAC 497, LLC / City Plat, LLC, 1009 Bridge Street - PIN 0657527271 - ANX-2024-03 Purpose – To consider an annexation ordinance extending the corporate limits of the Town of Fuquay-Varina following receipt of a petition for voluntary annexation of property located at 1009 Bridge Street owned by ITAC 497, LLC / City Plat, LLC, PIN 0657527271, containing approximately 5.686 acres, and to approve the annexation agreement. Staff Comments – Planning Director Pam Davison entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the official record of the Town. She then provided general information about the agenda item and made the following remarks. The property is contiguous to the Town's corporate limits, containing 5.686 acres. Town water and sewer are not currently available but will be extended as part of development. The petitioner has signed a Declaration of Annexation agreement. A fire flow test resulted in an adequate fire flow of 2,917 gallons per minute.  At the February 20, 2024, meeting, the Town Board instructed the Town Clerk to investigate the sufficiency of the applicant's petition for voluntary annexation. The Town Clerk certified at that time that the petition was sufficient and met the requirements prescribed by the North Carolina General Statutes. The Town Board also adopted a resolution setting a public hearing for the March 4, 2024, Town Board meeting. The present total value of the portion property being annexed is $3,083,878. Public Hearing – The public hearing was opened. No one spoke in opposition to the voluntary annexation petition. The public hearing was closed. Discussion – There was no discussion from members of the Town Board regarding this matter. Recommendation – Adopt the annexation ordinance to extend the corporate limits of the Town of Fuquay-Varina to include property owned by ITAC 497, LLC / City Plat, LLC (ANX-2024-03) and to approve the Declaration of Annexation Agreement as presented and recommended. Ordinance No. N-24-05 MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) 7C Voluntary Annexation Petition - Keith Brothers Farm, 2412 Belvinwood Drive - PIN 0668110908 (Portion of) - ANX-2024-02 Purpose – To consider an annexation ordinance extending the corporate limits of the Town of Fuquay-Varina following receipt of a petition for voluntary annexation of property located at 2412 Belvinwood Drive owned by Keith Brothers Farm, PIN 0668110908 (portion of), containing approximately 2.38 acres. Staff Comments – Planning Director Pam Davison entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the official record of the Town. She then provided general information about the agenda item and made the following remarks. The property is contiguous to the Town's corporate limits, containing 2.38 acres. Town water and sewer are available. A fire flow test resulted in an adequate fire flow of 1,165 gallons per minute. At the February 20, 2024, meeting, the Town Board instructed the Town Clerk to investigate the sufficiency of the applicant's petition for voluntary annexation. The Town Clerk certified at that time the petition was sufficient and met the requirements prescribed by the North Carolina General Statutes. The Town Board also adopted a resolution setting a public hearing for the March 4, 2024, Town Board meeting. The present total value of the portion property being annexed is $159,688. Public Hearing – The public hearing was opened. Wayne Mauldin, of Mauldin-Watkins Surveying, 139 N. Main Street, spoke in favor of the voluntary annexation petition. No one spoke in opposition to the voluntary annexation petition. The public hearing was closed. Discussion – There was no discussion from members of the Town Board regarding this matter. Recommendation – Adopt the annexation ordinance to extend the corporate limits of the Town of Fuquay-Varina to include property owned by Keith Brothers Farm (ANX- 2024-02) as presented and recommended. Ordinance No. N-24-06  MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) CONSENT AGENDA 8A. Preliminary Determination to Issue $50 million Revenue Bonds Purpose – To make the preliminary determination to issue $50 million in Revenue Bonds for the Sanford water plant expansion and other water system improvements. Recommendation – Approve the resolution making a preliminary determination to issue $50 million in revenue bonds for the Sanford water plant expansion and other water system improvements as presented and recommended. Resolution No. 24-1853 8B. Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit Request - Fuquay-Varina Growers Market Purpose – To approve a Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit for the Fuquay-Varina Growers Market scheduled every Saturday starting on April 13, 2024 through September 7, 2024 as presented and recommended. Recommendation – Approve a Special Event Application and Amplified Sound Permit for the Fuquay-Varina Growers Market scheduled for every Saturday starting on April 13, 2024 through September 7, 2024 as presented and recommended. 8C. Budget Amendment - Recognizing Insurance Proceeds - Public Utilities Department - BOA-24-25 Purpose – To consider a budget amendment that recognizes Insurance Proceeds for the Public Utilities Department water operations.  Recommendation – Approve Budget Amendment BA-24-25 as presented and recommended. 8D. Budget Ordinance Amendment - Public Utilities Department - BOA-24-27 Purpose – To consider budget amendment to appropriate funds into the Maintenance and Repair of Sewer lines for the Public Utilities Department wastewater operations. Recommendation – Approve Budget Amendment BA-24-27 as presented and recommended. 8E. Resolution – Authorization for Donations Acceptance Purpose – To consider adoption of a resolution that authorizes the Town Manager, or his designee, to accept donations or grants. Recommendation – Approve the resolution granting authorization to the Town Manager, or his designee, for accepting donations or grants as presented and recommended of real property. Resolution No. 24-1854 8F. Roadway Fee-In-Lieu – Atwater Station Phases 4, 5, and 7-10 Purpose – To consider approval of a Roadway Fee-In-Lieu payment for roadway improvements related to the Atwater Station Subdivision (Phases 4, 5, and 7-10) in the amount of $479,652.87. Recommendation – Approve a total of $ $479,652.87 as fee-in-lieu for roadway improvements associated with the Atwater Station Phases 4, 5, and 7-10 as presented and recommended. 8G. Roadway Fee-In-Lieu – Bridge Street Industrial Flex Project Purpose – To consider approval of a Roadway Fee-In-Lieu payment for roadway improvements related to the Bridge Street Industrial Flex Project in the amount of $29,480. Recommendation – Approve a total of $29,480 as fee-in-lieu payment for roadway improvements associated with the Bridge Street Industrial Flex Project as presented and recommended. 8H. Budget Amendment - Recognizing Grant Proceeds - United Arts Council - BA-24-28 - $5,000 Purpose – To consider approval of a budget amendment recognizing funds from the United Arts Council in the amount of $5,000 for the Arts Center. Recommendation – Approve the Budget Amendment (BA-24-28) to recognize grant proceeds from the United Arts Council as presented and recommended. A motion was made to approve all Consent Agenda Items 8A- 8H. MOTION Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Adcock MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT 9A There were no items removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 10A Contract Extension Amendment - Berk Tek - Local Economic Development Incentive Agreement Purpose – To consider a request by Berk-Tek Inc. to amend its Local Incentive Agreement allowing for a project completion extension to December 31, 2025. Staff Comments – Economic Development Director Tiffany McNeill entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the official record of the Town. She then provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. In December 2022, the Town Board of Commissioners approved an economic development incentive for Berk-Tek Inc. of up to $350,000. Berk-Tek announced plans to expand its facility at 100 Technology Park Lane, Fuquay-Varina, where it manufactures fiber optic cables. The proposed project will add approximately 95,000 square feet to the existing 55,000-square-foot building, investing $27,000,000 in new capital investments. In addition to expanding the facility and purchasing new machinery/equipment, the Company plans to create 100 new full-time employees. Berk-Tek, Inc., a Leviton Company, is a world-class manufacturer of high-performance and enhanced fiber optic and copper cables designed to transmit high-speed data, voice, and power transmissions with locations throughout the U.S. The Company has been in Fuquay-Varina for 33 years and employs 100 full-time employees. While construction is already underway at the project site, the timeline has shifted due to unforeseen construction and equipment delays. Berk-Tek requests that the construction completion date be extended to December 31, 2025. The original incentive agreement requires Berk-Tek to make $27,000,000 in new capital investments by October 31, 2024, and create at least 100 full-time jobs at the Project location by October 31, 2027. If approved by the Town Board, the amendment to the incentive agreement will allow Berk-Tek to make the $27,000,000 capital investments by December 31, 2025, and create at least 100 new full-time jobs by December 31, 2028.  On December 21, 2022, the Town Board approved an economic development incentive for Berk-Tek Inc., a Leviton Company, of up to $350,000. The originally approved incentive funding agreement requires Berk-Tek Inc. to make a minimum capital investment of $27,000,000 by October 31, 2024, and hire 100 new employees by October 31, 2027. The proposed amendment, if approved, will allow Berk-Tek to make the $27,000,000 capital investment by December 31, 2025, and create at least 100 new full-time jobs by December 31, 2028. The request by Berk-Tek to amend the incentive agreement is due to unforeseen project construction and equipment delays. The Town Attorney has reviewed and approved the agreements as to form. Discussion – There was no discussion from the Town Board. Recommendation – Approve the first amendment for Berk-Tek Inc. Local Incentive Agreement as presented and recommended. MOTION: Commissioner Adcock SECOND: Commissioner Wunsch MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) 10B Revisions to Town Facade Grant Policy Purpose – To consider increasing the reimbursement amount for the Town's Facade Grant Improvement Program from up to $2,500 to up to $5,000 each for eligible projects in DC-1 and DC-2 districts. Staff Comments – Economic Development Director Tiffany McNeill entered the agenda abstract and supporting documents for this agenda item into the official record of the Town. She provided information about the agenda item by making the following remarks. In 2013, the Town of Fuquay-Varina adopted the Façade Improvement Program. The façade improvement program is intended to enhance existing façade structures in the Downtown Center-1 (DC-1) and Downtown Center-2 (DC-2) Zoning Districts by providing financial assistance to property owners and business operators who make new improvements to the facade of their property. The goal of the façade improvement program is to enhance the look of the neighborhoods and the pedestrian experience by updating the front exterior of buildings in the DC-1 and DC-2 districts. Program funds are 1:1 matching grants and will reimburse up to $2,500. Since the start of the facade grant program in 2013, businesses and property owners have invested over $380,000 in façade improvements, with nearly $60,000 in grants awarded. In FY 22 and 23, total façade project costs averaged approximately $111,000. Rising construction costs nationwide pose a significant challenge for businesses and property owners seeking to improve their facades. In light of this, management and Town staff recommend that the Town Board consider increasing its facade grant funding from up to $2,500 to up to $5,000 per award. This strategic investment would not only directly address the financial burden of facade improvements but also contribute to the revitalization and economic vitality of the downtown districts. The current grant amount of $2,500 struggles to keep pace with the soaring costs of construction materials and labor. Nationwide construction costs saw an average increase of 4% in 2023. Those costs are set to increase by 3-6% in 2024. Rising national construction costs make essential facade projects increasingly difficult for businesses and property owners to undertake without additional support. By increasing the grant to $5,000, Fuquay-Varina can empower these stakeholders to embark on these crucial improvements, enhancing the visual appeal and character of the downtown area. Enhanced facade improvements can attract new customers and businesses, leading to increased foot traffic, sales, and a strengthened local economy and tax base. Furthermore, a higher grant amount aligns Fuquay-Varina's program with the standard set by surrounding municipalities. This ensures a level playing field, positioning the town to compete effectively for investment and development opportunities. In today's competitive economic environment, offering a grant that reflects the reality of rising construction costs demonstrates Fuquay-Varina's commitment to supporting its downtown businesses and property owners. This fosters a more vibrant and supportive environment, attracting new businesses and investment, ultimately leading to a more robust and resilient downtown. In fiscal year 2023, the Town Board approved an increase in the overall funding of the grant program from $15,000 to $30,000. Building upon this decision, management and staff now recommend increasing the individual award amount from $2,500 to $5,000. Increasing the facade grant to $5,000 represents a strategic investment in the future of Fuquay-Varina's downtown. It addresses the financial challenges of rising construction costs, empowers businesses and property owners to revitalize their facades, and positions the town to compete effectively for investment opportunities. This commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic vitality will contribute to a thriving and resilient downtown district poised for continued growth and prosperity. In 2013, the Town of Fuquay-Varina adopted the Façade Grant Improvement Program. The façade improvement program is intended to enhance existing façade structures in the Downtown Center-1 (DC-1) and Downtown Center-2 (DC-2) Zoning Districts by providing financial grant assistance to property owners and business operators. Currently, the program provides a maximum award of up to $2,500 for eligible facade improvement projects. If approved by the Town Board, the new maximum grant award amount will provide up to $5,000 for each eligible facade improvement project. Discussion – There was no discussion from the Town Board. Recommendation – Approve the increase in the reimbursement amount for the Town's Facade Grant Improvement Program as presented and recommended.  MOTION: Commissioner Haynes SECOND: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner MOTION RESULTS: Passed Unanimously (5-0) OTHER BUSINESS 11A Manager’s Report Town Manager Adam Mitchell gave the additional following updates: o Communications Department – The Communications Department “State of the Town” video was shown tonight, and the department is transitioning to prepare for the FY 25 Budget video as well as other information graphics for social media. o Finance Department – The Finance Department has started a review of departmental budget requests as well as projected revenues and capital projects for the FY 25 Budget and Five-Year Plan. The expectation is to take the month of March to review requests and early April to prepare a balanced plan to present to the Town Board at the Budget Workshop on April 22, 2024. o Police Department – The Police Department hired Cassandra Sullivan last Monday to fill a police officer position and the department is waiting on Criminal Justice Standards to transfer her Law Enforcement Certification. This afternoon, Mayor Massengill administered the oaths of office to four (4) new police officers (Anatasia Dimondi, Matthew McMullen, Ellie Klein, and Zachary Stombaugh). The citizens and Police Department staff collected nearly 900 books for the “Wake Up and Read” annual book drive. A total of 4,183 books were collected for the program. o Fire Department – The Fire Department began to move in furnishings and making final preparations for Fire Station 4 ribbon cutting on March 21, 2024. They launched a Fire Department Facebook page last Friday to better engage the community in Fire Prevention Education and improve community safety. o Public Works – The Public Works Department has received the small 13 cubic yard garbage truck included in the current year FY-24 budget. This truck will be more  efficient for customer service pickups, driver training, and to supplement commercial routes. Staff is preparing to bring the truck to our next Town Board meeting to showcase this new addition to the Town fleet. o Arts Center – The Arts Center has three great concerts coming up this week Shana Tucker, Gerald Parker Jazz Orchestra, and Beatlesque. The ArtisTree will be in the theatre lobby on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. o Public Utilities Department – The Public Utilities Department only received one responsive bid on the Sanford Water Filtration Facility Expansion contracts #1, #3, and #4. The projects have been readvertised for April 18, 30, and May 2, 2024. Plans to seek LGC approval in April have been moved to June 2024, following bid openings. o Inspections Department – The Inspections Department staff member Stephen Webb passed his Level II Building state exam and staff member Graham Baucom passed his Level 1 Electrical exam. 11.B Project Status Report – March 2024 11.C Painting with a Cop - Crazy Glaze - 1322 N. Main Street - Wednesday, March 6, 2024 - 6:30 - 8:00 pm 11.D Police Department - Freezin' for a Reason - Fundraiser Special Olympics - Saturday, March 16, 2024 - 11:00 - 2:00 pm - The Retreat at Fuquay-Varina Apartments Pool - 2700 Whakatane Lane 11.E Ribbon Cutting - Fire Station #4 - Thursday, March 21, 2024 - 2:00 pm - 4821 Wade Nash Road 11.F Easter Egg Hunt - Saturday March 23, 2024 - 10:00 am - Fleming Loop Park 11.G FVDA - Downtown Candy Hop - Saturday March 23, 2024 - 11:00 am - 2:00 pm 11.H Arm Wrestling Competition Police and Fire Department - Fundraiser Special Olympics - Sunday, March 24, 2024 - 1:00 - 3:00 pm - Fainting Goat Brewery - 330 S. Main Street BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Commissioner Harris stated that the State of the Town video was very creative, and it drives home a good message, and he enjoyed it. Commissioner Adcock stated he had no comments. Commissioner Wunsch stated the State of the Town videos are so wonderful every year with a great message. He thanked Communications Director Susan Weis and Amazing Studios for everyone’s hard work on the video. Commissioner Haynes stated that he had no comments. Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner stated that she has enjoyed all the Chamber’s ribbon cutting ceremonies and she is very excited to see all the new businesses coming into Town. She reported that she will not be able to attend the Easter Egg Hunt or Candy Hop this year due to scheduling conflicts with the Break the Silence 5K event. This event is to raise awareness for suicide prevention in memory of her son. The fundraiser has raised almost $100,000 for the Counseling Center of NC State. The event will take place at the WakeMed Soccer Park and anyone wanting to donate can go to the Sigma Power Break the Silence 5K website. Mayor Massengill recognized a citizen who has been involved with the senior program at the Community Center and has written a letter for their appreciation for all the hard work that Town employee Jerry O’Connell has done with the senior program. He reported that the Junior Women’s League will be having their 25th Annual American Red Cross Blood drive March 15th and encouraged everyone to donate. He reported that he participated in the “Read Across America” event last week and he read to the 2nd grade class at Lincoln Heights Elementary and Hebert Akins Elementary schools. Mayor Massengill also thanked Communications Director Susan Weis for all her hard work with the State of the Town Video. The following items are Mayor Massengill’s past and future events: Past Events 2/21 – Chamber Board Meeting 2/21 – CAMPO Executive Board Meeting 2/21 – Chamber Business After Hours 2/22 – Black History Stakeholders Meeting 2/23 – Community Leaders Meet & Greet Luncheon – The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints 2/29 - Leap of Kindness Day – Chamber of Commerce 2/29 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – K & Co Studio 3/1 – Read Across America 1st & 2nd Grade – Lincoln Heights 3/1 – Read Across America 2nd Grade – Herbert Akins 3/4 – State of the Town Upcoming Events 3/6 -Home Builder Government Affair Committee Meeting 3/6 – Call with Wake County Democratic Party Nominee Tara Waters 3/6 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Tacos Mexico 3/6 – Painting with a Cop 3/7 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting – Charlene’s Granny’s Sweets Food 3/9 – Judge American Legion Soup Cook Off 3/11 – FVHS 50th Anniversary Steering Committee Meeting 3/12 – Tour Wake Medical Office 3/13 – Main Street Conference 3/14 – Chamber Ribbon Cutting Whole Story Home Inspection 3/16 – Police Department Polar Plunge – The Retreat at Fuquay-Varina Apartment Pool 3/17 – Wake County Mayors Association CLOSED SESSION Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (a)(3) - Attorney Client Privilege and N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (a)(4) - Economic Development. A motion was made to conduct a closed session meeting at 8:23 p.m. MOTION: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner SECOND: Commissioner Haynes MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (5-0) RETURN TO OPEN SESSION The Town Board returned to Open Session at 8:39 p.m. with nothing to report out. ADJOURNMENT A motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:39 p.m. MOTION: Commissioner Wunsch SECOND: Mayor Pro-Tem Gardner MOTION RESULT: Passed Unanimously (5-0) The minutes from the March 4, 2024, Town Board of Commissioners regularly scheduled meeting are adopted this 19th day of March in the year 2024 in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. FUQUAY-VARINA, NORTH CAROLINA J. Blake Massengill, Mayor ATTEST (TOWN SEAL) Teresa Wilder, Deputy Town Clerk